Havurah

Baruch Ha-Ba! Welcome! As a member of Temple Beth Shalom, we invite you to join our Havurah and to take part in a wonderful, unique experience that has enhanced many people's lives.

What is a Havurah?

Havurah comes from the Hebrew word for friend. A Havurah (plural Havurot) is a small group of families, couples or individuals who share common interests and the desire to meet together on a regular basis to develop a personal friendship and form an "extended family" within the Temple Beth Shalom community. They do not replace other events at the synagogue. Rather, they supplement and support the synagogue's social, religious and intellectual activities.

What is the Advantage of a Havurah?

Being part of a Havurah is a wonderful way to feel the warmth and support of a close-knit community. Membership in a havurah serves to make a large congregation more intimate and personal, adding a sense of warmth within the larger TBS community.

For years Temple Beth Shalom members (especially new members) have found that by joining a Havurah they have developed an extended family at TBS. Havurah members can be counted on to both celebrate lifecycle events together and when necessary, provide comfort and support during times of sadness, illness and loss.

What Kinds of Things does a Havurah Do?

It's up to you! Your group can enjoy a Shabbat dinner together, have a Hanukkah party, build a Sukkah, and even go camping if you're so inclined. Each Havurah determines the types of activities it wants. Some involve children, some do not. You can ask one of our clergy to attend your monthly meeting to discuss a variety of topics related to Jewish life. The Havurah program director is also available to help with programming ideas.

How is a Havurah Formed?

After returning a completed Havurah application, you will be "matched up" with others who have similar interests, backgrounds and requests. At the first meeting of your new Havurah, a Havurah committee member will be there to help break the ice, to explain about how a Havurah functions and to give programming ideas.

How are New Members Added to Existing Havurot?

If your Havurah is in need of new members, call the Temple; you will be directed to the Havurah Committee Chairperson who will assist you. You may also personally invite any Temple members to be part of your group. Kindly inform the Havurah Committee Chairperson of any changes in your Havurah.

Join or Form Havurah!

If you are interested in becoming involved in community in a more intimate setting than found at services, consider joining or forming a havurah. Each Havurah is different and reflects the needs and desires of its members. A group usually consists of about 10-12 couples or families or up to 20 individuals who get together on a regular basis in members' homes. Havurot are only open to Temple Beth Shalom members. To get started, please fill out a Havurah application click here (requires Adobe Acrobat Reader) and return it to the Temple office.

Calling all Havurot! Are you already involved in a Temple Havurah?

Then please let us know about you! We would like to know more about how you got started, who is in your group and if you need any help with resource materials etc. Please contact Marla Parnes by e-mail or by calling the Temple office at 973-992-3600.

Questions? Comments? Interested in getting more information about Havurah? Or, do you have some exciting Havurah news to share? Please contact Marla Parnes, Havurah Committee Chairperson, by e-mail or by calling the Temple office at 973-992-3600. I look forward to speaking with you soon!